Ninewells Hospital staff highlight loneliness during holiday season

Staff at the Health Shop in Ninewells Hospital are raising awareness about how loneliness can affect people over the festive period.

The shop’s new campaign aims to raise awareness about social isolation and is working with groups including the Home from Hospital Service and Dundee Voluntary Action’s Community Companions to prevent loneliness.

According to campaigners, loneliness can be as harmful to your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Jodi Moodie, NHS Tayside health shops manager, said: “Christmas can be a time for celebration, but for many it is a lonely time.

“Life transitions such as bereavement, retirement, developing a health condition, becoming a carer or a family estrangement can all be factors in feeling socially isolated.

“These events are not only stressful, but can also lead to poorer health and wellbeing through the impact of loneliness.

“However, there is support out there and we want to raise awareness about the services available to people in Tayside not only during the festive season but throughout the year.”

There are a number of schemes already tackling loneliness in the hospital.

The Home from Hospital Service provides short-term support for older people returning home from hospital.

Community Companions helps older adults who are experiencing social isolation.

Health Shop staff and volunteers can also provide information about various organisations that can provide people with a chance to connect with others and their community.